New York–As retailers struggled through some not-so-pleasing first quarter earnings reports this week, several reasons for shortfalls emerged: the “macro-economic environment,” cooler-than-normal spring, effects of the payroll tax increase and shrinking margins.

But there were bright spots, too: Saks Inc., TJX Companies, Burberry all provides some surprises for retail analysts. While major retailers complained about the weight of regulations on their day-to-day operations, a British research firm issued a warning to consumers: “wash your hands” when handling your handbag!